Onychophagia is the clinical term for nail biting, a common habit affecting both children and adults. It's often linked to stress, anxiety, or nervous habits. Many sources describe it as a body-focused repetitive behavior and a type of self-grooming disorder. The act can range from occasional nibbling to chronic, seemingly uncontrollable biting of fingernails and toenails.
Understanding Onychophagia
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Clinical Definition: Onychophagia, also sometimes spelled onychophagy, is the medically recognized term for the habit of biting one's nails. (Dermnetnz.org, Psychology Today, Dictionary.com, Wikipedia)
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Underlying Causes: While often a nervous habit, onychophagia can stem from stress, anxiety, or other underlying emotional distress. (Healthline, WebMD, Cedars-Sinai) For some, it's an automatic behavior, unconsciously performed during mundane activities. (NCBI)
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Unhygienic Aspects: Nail biting is considered unhygienic, as it can introduce germs and bacteria to the mouth. (Wikipedia)
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Severity: The severity varies greatly; some individuals only bite their nails occasionally, while others exhibit a more compulsive and chronic behavior. (Healthline)
In Summary
Onychophagia is simply the formal name for the common habit of nail biting. It's often connected to emotional factors and can range in intensity from mild to severe.
